What is FamilyNet?
FamilyNet is the Sheffield Family e-Learning Project, run by the Adult and Community Learning Unit of Sheffield City Council. Funding is from Objective One and lasts until December 2007. The project preparation stage began in September 2005 and the implementation stage in schools was completed by May 2006.
FamilyNet is working with families from eight primary schools in Sheffield; in Southey/Owlerton (Mansel, Monteney, Southey Green, Shirecliffe schools) and Burngreave (Firs Hill, St Catherine’s, Pye Bank and Byron Wood schools). 30 families from each school have been provided with a computer, printer and broadband Internet access until December 2007.
Aims
To enable parents to use technology to support their children with their school work
To build up parents’ awareness of the benefits of computers, the Internet and e-learning
To enable families to use technology to feel more included in society
To attract adults into e-learning
To encourage online communication between families, schools and communities
The learning offer
FamilyNet extends the Family Learning currently on offer in schools with workshops, longer family learning courses, and wider family learning activities to encourage Internet and computer use at home. It also promotes Internet and e-learning services on offer in local libraries and other community facilities.
There is a FamilyNet e-tutor based in each school to offer the participating families support in using the computers for their independent and family learning. Since September 2006, there have been opportunities for other families to enrol on accredited courses, in addition to the workshops and other activities.
FamilyNet also encourages training for practitioners in the use of e-learning. The team has developed content and resources to support the development of IT skills and Family Learning and uses a Virtual Learning Environment as well as providing face to face support.
How do I contact FamilyNet?
Contact the Family e-Learning Project Manager: Vivienne Drake at the Adult and Community Learning Unit on 0114 266 7503 or via email – familynet@sheffield.gov.uk